Hello everyone,

As we approach the start of the 2026–27 season, I wanted to take a moment to share a message with you all.

First and foremost, I want to say what an absolute honour and privilege it is to serve as Chairperson of this wonderful football club. That feeling is even stronger knowing I follow in the footsteps of an Adswood United legend, Tim Burke. I am delighted that Tim has now taken on the role of Club President, and he is already proving to be incredibly active—keeping Nathan and me firmly on our toes.

A very warm welcome to all our returning members and to those joining us for the first time.

Our club mantra remains unchanged: football for all—irrespective of ability, background, colour, creed, or religious belief. This principle is at the heart of everything we do.

We head into the new season with a thriving soccer school for 4–6yearolds, teams from U7s through to U16s, two senior teams, and our newly formed Vets team under the management of Dan Smith. While I admire teams with ambitions to win trophies, I equally respect those whose success is measured by fulfilling fixtures, playing with integrity, and showing respect to officials, opponents, and spectators. Both forms of success matter.

This brings me to an important point. For those who may not know, our Welfare Officer, Vicky Walker, plays a crucial role in ensuring our club remains safe, inclusive, and compliant. Vicky:

• Promotes a safe and welcoming environment for players, coaches, volunteers, and parents.

• Leads on safeguarding practice and ensures policies are understood and followed.

• Acts as the first point of contact for welfare concerns or disclosures involving children or vulnerable adults.

• Ensures all coaches and volunteers maintain uptodate DBS checks, safeguarding qualifications, and essential training.

At our recent club meeting, Vicky highlighted several key directives from the FA that we must all take seriously:

FA – Four Key Points of Focus

• Everyone working in grassroots football with young players must hold current safeguarding training, first aid qualifications, and an FAapproved DBS check.

• Nathan will notify anyone whose certification is out of date, as this can affect a team’s ability to train or play.

• Coaches must be alert to signs of bullying, clique behaviour, or player isolation. Early intervention is essential.

• Negative behaviour should be challenged consistently to maintain a positive team culture.

• Neurodiversity: Increasing numbers of children are being diagnosed with autism, ADHD, and other conditions. Where appropriate, coaches should discreetly inform referees before matches so that games can be adapted to ensure inclusive participation.

• Playing time should be fair and developmentfocused, giving all children adequate opportunities.

• As volunteer coaches with work and family commitments, it is vital that we look after one another and avoid burnout.

• Workload should be shared, with everyone contributing at events, tournaments, and club activities.

• Coaches and managers are encouraged to share best practice, observe each other’s sessions, and exchange ideas to strengthen coaching quality.

• We must teach and model respect, raising standards and leading by example.

• Poor parent or spectator behaviour should be challenged appropriately.

• Protecting match officials—especially young referees—is essential.

• The Code of Conduct will be reissued at the start of the season for players and spectators, setting clear expectations from day one.

• The club operates a zerotolerance policy on alcohol consumption on the sidelines unless at a licensed venue or organised event.

• No alcohol should be consumed around minors under any other circumstances.

• Several recent issues have been fuelled by alcohol, and this standard is nonnegotiable.

• Please be mindful of what you write or post.

• Lead by example and discourage negative or inappropriate content, including bad language.

• All admins have the authority to remove inappropriate posts or close conversations that breach standards.

• Everyone is accountable for their digital behaviour. Remember: everything is traceable, and screenshots can be taken at any time. Think before you post.

It is important that we all pay attention to these directives which, frankly, are common sense and essential to maintaining the standards of our club.

My intention is to watch all teams during the first month of the season, and I look forward to seeing you all in action.

For now, I wish you the very best of luck for the season ahead.

Best regards, Ian